In total we have now awarded Action Grants totalling £291,226 to 283 groups across Derbyshire in the first three rounds of the scheme since it launched in May 2018.

Community groups, clubs and charities are being encouraged to apply for the fourth round which is open now up to a deadline of March 31.

Up for grabs from the £1.5m fund are 2,000 small grants of up to £500, a number of grants worth up to £5,000 and – for schemes which can be shown to offer long-term benefits for local people and promote two or more of the Action Grant themes – potential grants of £10,000.

Successful applicants so far were able to show they promoted one or more of the council’s four Action Grant themes or a combination.

Youth Activity: Including setting up youth clubs, organising activities for young people, projects to help young people gain new skills or schemes to help them deal with mental health issues

Community Activity: Such as setting up new community groups, organising a local event or starting a community project

Physical Activity and Sport: Money for schemes to encourage residents of all ages to take part in physical activities, keep fit and stay healthy – or which encourage people to get active if they’re not already

Community Safety: Grants for projects to reduce crime and the fear of crime including raising awareness about scams and rogue trading, schemes to tackle anti-social behaviour and initiatives to help residents keep themselves safe

The full list of the grants approved in round three has just been announced with others to follow up to May 2020.

Grants awarded in the third round will fund activities including sports training and facilities, theatre groups, allotments, developing apps, art workshops, adventure activities for youth groups, green initiatives, clubs for older people and activities to support disabled people.

Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Leadership, Culture and Tourism, Councillor Barry Lewis, said:

“It’s less than a year since we launched our Action Grants and nearly three hundred groups have already benefited which is great news.

“We’ve been really impressed with the range of applications as they reflect the excellent work going on throughout Derbyshire to provide opportunities for local residents both young and old.

“If you’re involved with a community group, club or charity in Derbyshire an Action Grant could be just the helping hand you need.

“The process is quick and simple and if you apply now for the March deadline we’ll aim to give you a decision within four weeks. What are you waiting for?”

The deadline for the current fourth round of £500 Action Grant applications is 31 March 2019. Groups which apply should hear if they have been successful within four weeks of the deadline.